O’Dowda, who has featured 14 times for the Robins this season under Lee Johnson – seven times in the starting XI - was handed his first competitive start by O’Neill in the win over Moldova last Friday, with the former Oxford United having a telling impact on the game.

He completed all of his 32 passes, created two chances and registered two shots.

Callum O'Dowda

In a stark contrast to last season at Ashton Gate, where O’Dowda featured in 34 games but started only 15 times, O’Neil says regular playing time is paying dividends.

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“More playing time at club level has helped him, as with his general fitness. He’s a really, really good lad and I wish him the very best. I have a lot of time for him,” said the former Aston Villa boss.

“My advice for him at club level, when he gets the opportunity, was for him to drive at people. He can move the ball well – he has pace – and he is growing in confidence.”

O’Dowda is now vying for a place in O'Neill's starting side for tonight’s World Cup qualifier against Wales.